Discretionary Housing Payment Policy 2022-23

4.1 The aim of the policy is to ensure that the funding is used in the most appropriate way to provide additional financial assistance to the most vulnerable customers, who without it are likely to experience financial hardship, increased levels of unmanageable debt, homelessness, and an inability to secure or retain the appropriate type of accommodation for their specific needs. The policy also aims to keep families together and support family access.

4.2 Each case will be treated strictly on its merits and all claimants will be treated equally and fairly when the scheme is administered.

4.3 The Council is committed to working with the local voluntary sector, social landlords and other interested parties to maximise entitlement to all available state benefits and other support that may be available and this will be reflected in the administration of the DHP scheme.

4.4 This policy is not intended to rigidly define the circumstances in which an award will be made. To do so would make the policy too inflexible and may prevent payments being made where there are exceptional or unusual circumstances. Payments are expected to be made to meet current needs rather than past debts.